Irresistible Game Day Appetizers
Cheesy, crispy, comfort-packed game day appetizers starring California Ripe Olives.
When it comes to bold, briny flavor, few ingredients deliver like California Ripe Olives. Grown in the sun-soaked groves of the Golden State, these pantry staples add richness, salt, and just the right amount of zing to your favorite dishes.
Whether they’re scattered over bubbling cheese, tucked into flaky dough, or crisped into snackable bites, California olives bring a distinctive, mellow brininess that complements comfort food beautifully. This roundup features eight crave-worthy recipes, perfect for game day spreads, family snacks, or cozy gatherings.
Loaded Potato Chip Nachos with California Ripe Olives
Crunchy kettle chips are the base for these over-the-top game day appetizers from No Crumbs Left, loaded with melted cheese, cured meats, herbs, and a generous handful of sliced California Ripe Olives. A squeeze of lemon at the end brightens the whole dish.
Why it works: Fast, flavor-packed, and ideal for a crowd.
Pro tip: Use a sturdy chip that can stand up to all the toppings without going soggy.
Cheesy Olive Garlic Bread
This pull-apart garlic bread from Baking the Goods is stuffed with Gruyère and Fontina cheese, Dijon mustard, and sliced black olives. The olives cut through the richness of the cheese while adding a mild, buttery bite.
Why it works: A familiar favorite with a flavorful upgrade.
Pro tip: Slice the bread Hasselback-style to let the olive-studded garlic butter soak in between every piece.
Gluten-Free Cheesy Tater Tot Bake with Olives
Tater tots and cheese form the cozy foundation of this casserole from A Girl Defloured, while sliced California Ripe Olives bring a salty, savory contrast to every bite. It’s gluten-free and perfect for everything from game day appetizers to a weeknight dinner or potluck.
Why it works: Familiar flavors in a format that’s easy to make and even easier to love.
Pro tip: Use extra-sharp cheddar to deepen the flavor and balance the richness.
Cheesy Potato and Olive Taco Cups
Mashed potatoes and cheese are spooned into crispy mini taco shells and topped with California Ripe Olives. This fun recipe by Tahiri Flowers is portable and perfect for entertaining.
Why it works: Individual portions make for easy serving and big visual appeal.
Pro tip: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chopped jalapeño to the filling for a little heat.
Fried California Ripe Olives
These whole black olives are breaded and fried until crispy on the outside and warm on the inside. This recipe from Nibbles and Feasts is simple to make and irresistible once you start snacking.
Why it works: Bold, salty flavor wrapped in a crunchy shell.
Pro tip: Serve on skewers with cheese and pickles or with a citrusy aioli to balance the richness.
Easy Antipasto Skewers
These no-cook skewers from Big Delicious Life combine cheese, salami, cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and California Ripe Olives for colorful game day appetizers that are ready in minutes.
Why it works: All the best parts of an antipasto platter in one bite.
Pro tip: Alternate ingredients by texture and color to make each skewer pop.
Tapenade with California Ripe Olives
This simple tapenade blends California Ripe Olives with garlic, lemon, herbs, and olive oil. Serve this easy appetizer with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Why it works: Big flavor with minimal effort and ingredients.
Pro tip: Add sun-dried tomatoes or capers for a twist on the traditional version.
Caponata Kolache with California Canned Green Olives
This unexpected fusion from Bayou Saint Cake combines Sicilian-style caponata—made with eggplant, tomatoes, and California Canned Green Olives—tucked into soft kolache dough. Sweet, savory, and satisfying.
Why it works: A creative blend of pastry and relish, with olives adding brightness and texture.
Pro tip: Top with sesame seeds for extra crunch and a beautiful finish.
Whether you’re hosting friends for the big game, pulling together an appetizer board, or just craving something salty and cheesy, these olive-packed recipes bring a lot to the table.
California Ripe Olives are a pantry essential: shelf-stable, full of flavor, and incredibly versatile. They complement rich cheeses, crispy starches, and bold condiments in ways that elevate everyday ingredients into something memorable.